Questionable opinion: I think the media we choose to consume isn’t all that different. Book people just have the gift of being able to track and analyze it a bit more precisely. I don’t write down every time I’ve finished the whole series of The Office. I’ve never counted the hours I’ve laughed at “Whose…
Reading Goals for 2026: Choose, Track, and Enjoy Your Reading Life
Confession: I love watching strangers online argue about whether graphic novels count toward reading goals. Because the internet knows us best, I’m on the side of social media that is obsessed these last few days of the year with the topic of their reading goals. It’s a bit of a hodgepodge of comments including: Do…
Start where you are: One good at a time
I don’t know about you, but I can’t always keep up. Which companies have done or said something that goes against what I believe? Which CEOs have been problematic or maybe fund causes I support? Which of the 12 upcoming events should I attend? Which of the dozens of nonprofits I see as important should…
Community can be awkward (but worth it)
One thing I need to do better is be involved in the community around me. I have not given this goal the priority I know it deserves. I’ll show up to a town event from time to time, but I’m just as likely to skip because I don’t feel like putting on shoes. I actively…
Finding Meaning in Small Social Media Moments: 10 Likes on a Mountain Hike
Halfway down a mountain trail — sweaty, tired, and proud — I caught myself checking my phone to see if anyone had liked the photo I just posted. Ten people had. It’s easy, in an age of influencers and celebrities drawing millions of views and likes, to look at my own little corner of social…
In-hair-itance
Your mother’s father shows your future hair loss. Or so goes the legend. While the science is a bit more complex than that, maternal genes are one factor that can’t be ignored. If this ends up being the strongest influence for my child’s future hairline, well, you are very welcome child. Enjoy your luscious flowing…
Unicorn Space
Common complaint time: I feel I have no (ok, to be fair probably just little) time in my life to do just whatever I want. Let me clarify, because that sounds so bleak. 90% of what I do with my son on a daily basis is “whatever I want” since we have very few responsibilities…
Nature is for beginners
So we live in Colorado now. It’s a gorgeous state. Nature is everywhere and with endless variety. The clean air beckons me outside every time I get near an open window. Before moving here I used to say I’m an outdoorsy person. But boy are these Coloradans intimidating. I’m not at their level. There are…
A sister’s pride
I always thought working for my own success would be my greatest source of pride and joy. I never exactly figured out how I defined success, so who knows, maybe I’m there. However throughout my adult years I’ve learned what many parents and other mature adult people know: third-party pride. Ok, that’s probably not what…
Brown Bag Adventures 